In 1950, Heitor Villa-Lobos responded to a virtuoso New York pianist who wanted to perform one of his most famous compositions: Rudepoema.
- Letter signed by Heitor Villa-Lobos to Raymond Lewenthal.
- One sheet, one page.
- In Portuguese.
- Approximately 21 cm x 29 cm.
- Good condition but the upper edge of the sheet is damaged.
- Unique piece.
Transcription
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND HEALTH
Rio, July 12, 1950
Mr. Raymond Lewenthal
206 East 30th Street
New-York 16, NY
USA
Dear Mr. Lewenthal,
I am only responding to your letter of May 11th today, as I am away from Rio on an artistic tour of the various states of Brazil.
Unfortunately I do not have the song “Rudepoema” to send you a copy, but I advise you to write directly to my publisher in Paris, MAISON MAX-ESCHIG, Rue de Rome 48, France, who will be able to send you a copy.
I would like to take this opportunity to suggest that you seek to obtain this music through the ASSOCIATED MUSIC PUBLISHERS, in New York, or through the VILLA-LOBOS MUSIC CORPORATION, 1565 Broadway, New York.
Regretting that I cannot meet your request, I would like to express my sincere appreciation and distinguished consideration.
H. Villa-Lobos
Araujo Street Porto Alegre 56
Rio de Janeiro
Brazil
The letter is dated 1950, a time when Villa-Lobos was already an emblematic figure in international classical music. At that time, he continued to promote his works abroad, especially in the United States and Europe. The letter mentions one of his most important works, “Rudepoema”, written for piano in 1926 and dedicated to the legendary pianist Artur Rubinstein. This composition is complex and represents one of the pinnacles of his piano music.
The letter is handwritten by Villa-Lobos, one of the greatest Brazilian composers. Autographed documents from renowned artists, especially those related to their works, are rare and highly valued by collectors.
